Although I have my Thai driver's license I'm still not ready after 5 months in Chiang Mai to drive in this crazy traffic and, for me, on the wrong side of the road. So I rely on public transportation.

Any experience with the train to Lampang? Last time I went there I took a bus but it was an adrenaline provoking experience as we flew down the mountain roads, making the other vehicles seem stationary in comparison. Am wondering about the train--I know it's slower but would prefer a less stimulating ride. I did read about a sinkhole that halted service on that route last month but I think it's been fixed. Has anyone taken the train between CM and Lampang or should I just stick with the bus and close my eyes instead of looking out the window?

If you are very relaxed about time, the train is ok, very slow on that section of track and if it is late arriving (often) from BKK then it will leave CM later. Somewhat scenic, this time of year, still green.

Sinkholes!

http://www.nationmultimedia.com/national/Trains-in-North-stopped-as-wet-causes-sinkhole-30190023.html

I was on the train a few days before this happened and didn't feel safe.

http://www.thaivisa.com/forum/topic/528159-the-state-timetravel-authority-of-thailand/page__hl__%2Btrain+%2Bfrom+%2Bchiang+%2Bmai+%2Bto+%2Blampang